Best of New Zealand Self Drive

Price

Inclusions

• Round-trip airfare on Air New Zealand from Los Angeles to Auckland, returning from Queenstown
• One-way airfare from Auckland to Queenstown
• One-way private arrival airport/hotel transfer, Auckland
• 1-night Auckland, Fable Auckland, Classic King Room with Early Check-In
• Private Half-day Auckland City Highlights Tour
• One-way Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves experience
• 2-nights Rotorua, Regent of Rotorua, Superior Room
• Half-day Eco Thermal Park Tour
• Te Pa Tu Evening Cultural Experience
• 11-days Intermediate SUV car rental 11 days Intermediate Car Hire includes unlimited mileage, GST, Standard Damage Waiver and Excess Reduction (Nil)
• 1-night Napier, The Crown Hotel, Studio Suite
• 2-nights Wellington, Bolten Hotel, Premier Suite
• Private Te Papa Highlights Tour
• Zealandia by Night
• One-way passenger ferry, Wellington to Picton, double cabin
• 1-night Kaikoura, Sudima Kaikoura, Superior King including breakfast
• Whale Watching Cruise, Kaikoura
• 1-night Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City, Luxe King
• 1-night Lake Tekapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort, Deluxe Lake View Room
• Dark Sky Project Summit Experience
• Glacier Explorer Mt Cook
• 3-nights Queenstown, Heritage Queenstown, Studio Lakeview Room
• Milford Sound Fly/Nature Cruise/Fly
• TSS Earnslaw Walter Peak & Gourmet BBQ Dinner
• US/foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee

Exclusions

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free App or NZ$23 if completed online PLUS the IVL of NZ$35 (NZ$100 from Oct 1, 2024). Payable on application.
• Car Rental excludes additional insurances, petrol, bond, additional drivers (NZ$5+GST per day up to a maximum of NZ$25 +GST for the entire length of rental), Standard Insurance Excess (payable direct) and miscellaneous charges

Map

Itinerary

• 01
  

  Day 1 - Depart USA

  This evening make your way to the Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight aboard Air New Zealand to Auckland. Enjoy a dining experience full of super fresh ingredients and flavors and an extensive range of premium New Zealand wines to complement each meal. Relax in the ergonomically designed seats that create generous personal space to ensure a comfortable journey. Take control of the on-demand entertainment and enjoy a wide range of audio and video and a collection of the very best in music.

• 02
  

  Day 2 - International Date Line

  During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

• 03
  

  Day 3 - Auckland (L)

  On arrival at Auckland Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle for a 1-night stay.

  After a quick refresh, your driver will take you on a private 4-hour tour of Auckland. You'll explore beautiful East Coast beaches, capture stunning photos at Achilles Point, and visit the MJ Savage Memorial at Bastion Point. Cross the iconic Harbour Bridge to North Shore, learning about its history. In Devonport, enjoy boutique shops, relax on the beach with a picnic lunch, and climb Mount Victoria for 360° views and the rare Disappearing Gun.

  • 

    Fable Auckland (Deluxe)

    Ideally situated on lower Queen Street in the bustling heart of Auckland City, Fable Auckland, an MGallery property, stands as a beacon of luxury and impeccable service. From the moment you step through our doors, you'll be greeted with Fable's signature welcome tea and assisted by our attentive concierge services. With valet parking, room service, and Nespresso coffee machines, every aspect of your stay is meticulously catered to, making it an obvious choice for any discerning traveler.

    Step into a world of old-world charm and lavish design at Fable Auckland. Dine at Cooke's Restaurant & Bar, offering a delectable array of international cuisine. Unwind and rejuvenate in our luxurious wellbeing facilities, including a Jacuzzi, sauna, and fitness room.

    Each of the 79 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites exudes elegance and comfort, inspired by the Art Deco design style popular in the early 1900s. Boasting a luxurious “Sofitel my Bed”, Bose speakers, complimentary WiFi, T2 bone china and teas, Nespresso machine, state-of-the-art Smart TV and sustainable Marihi amenities, guests can embrace the elegance of modern style combined with a bygone era.

    Conveniently located near Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbor precinct, North Wharf, and the picturesque Waitemata Harbour, Fable Auckland is the perfect base for exploring the city's renowned attractions. The heritage-listed 5-star Qualmark Hotel offers unrivaled access to premium shopping, prestigious business addresses, trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, lively bars, and an array of exceptional recreational activities.

     

    Fable Auckland  (Deluxe)
• 04
  

  Day 4 - Rotorua

  Your day begins with a hotel pick-up in Auckland in a comfortable minibus. Enjoy a fully guided drive through the stunning Waikato countryside to Waitomo Caves, where you'll see New Zealand's longest river, beautiful mountains, and various farm animals. At Waitomo, explore ancient caves with unique formations and experience a glowworm boat ride in the grotto. Continuing south to Rotorua, enjoy scenic views of hydro dams, rivers, and more. In Rotorua, we'll guide you past its famous sites, including Lake Rotorua, Government Gardens, and Thermal Springs, before dropping you at your accommodation.

  • 

    Regent of Rotorua (Superior)

    Escape to a boutique four-star plus hotel offering stylish accommodation with a touch of glamour.

    This hotel in Rotorua’s city center has been designed with the modern traveler in mind. Prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of stylish spaces that are refreshingly original and marking the epitome of chic inner-city accommodation.

    The property features a heated outdoor swimming pool, private mineral pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, free off-street parking, a business center, and DVD library.

    Rooms range from one-bedroom Boutique Suites, Two-bedroom Family and Executive Suites, to Superior Rooms with king beds, and Cutie Rooms ideal for solo travellers or couples who like an intimate space. Interconnecting rooms are also available. All accommodations offer a double bed, plush linens & down pillows/duvet, Citta Design bathrobes, a work desk, air-conditioning, WiFi, iPod dock stations, minibars, plunger coffee and in-room safes. The modern and spacious bathrooms feature monsoon rain showers, hairdryers, and heated mirrors.

    Regent is one of Rotorua’s bike-friendly accommodation providers, offering bike storage and cleaning facilities.

    To complete your stay, you’re invited to enjoy award-winning dining in The Regent Room Restaurant & Bar, open seven days and serving breakfast, tapas, lunches, coffees (including takeout coffee), a la carte, or a full degustation dinner experience.

    Regent of Rotorua  (Superior)
• 05
  

  Day 5 - Rotorua (D)

  This morning, join a guided tour of Rotorua's top geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Rainbow Mt, and the boiling mud-fields. Your local guide will explain volcanic processes as you explore volcanoes, geysers, boiling mud pools, and hot springs. Highlights include Wai-o-Tapu's colorful hot springs and the Lady Knox geyser, as well as Waimangu's volcanic landscapes and the story of the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption.

  The afternoon is free before enjoying a cultural performance and a 3-course seasonal fusion feast at Te Pā Tū, featuring lesser-known delicacies. A local guide escorts you by coach to the Māori village for an immersive evening that begins with a welcome ceremony by New Zealand's indigenous people. Learn about local customs based on the Māori lunar calendar and watch a powerful display of song and dance.

  • 

    Regent of Rotorua (Superior)

    Escape to a boutique four-star plus hotel offering stylish accommodation with a touch of glamour.

    This hotel in Rotorua’s city center has been designed with the modern traveler in mind. Prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of stylish spaces that are refreshingly original and marking the epitome of chic inner-city accommodation.

    The property features a heated outdoor swimming pool, private mineral pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, free off-street parking, a business center, and DVD library.

    Rooms range from one-bedroom Boutique Suites, Two-bedroom Family and Executive Suites, to Superior Rooms with king beds, and Cutie Rooms ideal for solo travellers or couples who like an intimate space. Interconnecting rooms are also available. All accommodations offer a double bed, plush linens & down pillows/duvet, Citta Design bathrobes, a work desk, air-conditioning, WiFi, iPod dock stations, minibars, plunger coffee and in-room safes. The modern and spacious bathrooms feature monsoon rain showers, hairdryers, and heated mirrors.

    Regent is one of Rotorua’s bike-friendly accommodation providers, offering bike storage and cleaning facilities.

    To complete your stay, you’re invited to enjoy award-winning dining in The Regent Room Restaurant & Bar, open seven days and serving breakfast, tapas, lunches, coffees (including takeout coffee), a la carte, or a full degustation dinner experience.

    Regent of Rotorua  (Superior)
• 06
  

  Day 6 - Napier

  Collect your rental vehicle this morning and travel from Rotorua to Napier. As you leave the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, you'll travel through lush rolling hills, dense forests, and charming rural towns. The route passes by Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, offering stunning views of its clear waters and surrounding mountains. As you approach Napier, the landscape transitions into the picturesque vineyards and orchards of Hawke's Bay, known for its world-class wine and art deco architecture. The journey is a beautiful blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a memorable part of your travel experience. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting, or perhaps take a guided walk around the Art Deco city center (own expense).

  • 

    The Crown Hotel (Superior)

    Perched gracefully on the picturesque waterfront of the historic seaside village of Ahuriri in Napier, The Crown Hotel offers an unrivaled location where the sun, sea, and landscape become an integral part of your stay.

    With 39 rooms, this superior hotel presents a range of accommodation options, including studios and 1- or 2-bedroom suites. Guests can opt for the timeless elegance of the heritage suites housed within the original 1932 Crown Hotel or the modern comfort of contemporary rooms with ocean views. Each air-conditioned room is thoughtfully appointed with essential amenities such as a desk, mini-fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, and WiFi access.

    Complementing the comfortable accommodation, guests enjoy complimentary perks including car parking, daily newspapers, and access to laundry facilities and a fitness center.

    For dining options, guests can indulge in culinary delights at the on-site Milk and Honey Restaurant, conveniently located in the hotel lobby. Serving a blend of elegant yet approachable dishes, the restaurant welcomes guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a delightful culinary experience throughout their stay.

    The Crown Hotel  (Superior)
• 07
  

  Day 7 - Wellington

  The drive from Napier to Wellington offers a scenic journey through diverse landscapes. As you leave the sun-soaked vineyards and art deco charm of Napier, the road winds through the fertile farmlands and rolling hills of the Hawke's Bay region. Continuing south, you'll pass through the rugged terrain of the Tararua Ranges, with dramatic views of forested mountains and deep valleys. The final stretch along the Kapiti Coast provides stunning ocean vistas, with the Tasman Sea on one side and lush green hills on the other. Approaching Wellington, you'll feel the city's vibrant energy as you arrive in New Zealand's bustling capital, known for its culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.

• 08
  

  Day 8 - Wellington

  Make your way to Te Papa Museum and enjoy a 1-hour private tour. Learn about how New Zealand came to be and what the future holds for this island nation on a privately guided tour of the national museum. Explore our diverse natural environment, the continued growth of Māori culture, and what the national art collection has to say about living in New Zealand. Discover intricate details and ask in-depth questions about New Zealand with your own personal guide who will take up close to a diverse array of taonga dotted around the museum.

  Late afternoon, make your way to Zealandia for a 2.5-hour experience.  Explore the valley by torchlight as your guide leads you in search of the endemic species found in Zealandia. Experience many of the rare and endangered species and see those who only come out at night. Your group may even see some of the 130 little spotted kiwi who call Zealandia home. Gain insights into New Zealand’s natural history and the significance within Māori culture. The tour will end with a replenishing cup of hot kawakawa tea (bushman’s tea) in the Visitor Centre.

• 09
  

  Day 9 - Kaikoura

  Return your rental vehicle and board the ferry to travel across Marlborough Sounds to Picton. On arrival, collect a rental vehicle and make your way down the coast to Kaikoura. The drive from Picton to Kaikoura is a breathtaking coastal journey along the rugged eastern coastline of the South Island. With the sparkling Pacific Ocean on one side and the majestic Kaikoura Ranges on the other, this route offers stunning views of both land and sea, making it a scenic highlight of any New Zealand road trip.

  • 

    Sudima Kaikoura (Superior)

    Situated along the pristine shoreline of Kaikoura, Sudima Kaikoura offers unparalleled proximity to both the beach and the town center, just a mere one-minute stroll away.

    Featuring 120 meticulously appointed rooms, including Superior and Ocean View options in both king and twin-share configurations, as well as Ocean View suites in a king setup, Sudima Kaikoura ensures a comfortable and memorable stay. Each room is tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities such as air-conditioning, TV with content casting, Amazon Echo, mini-fridge, security safe, and tea & coffee making facilities.

    Savor the flavors of the region at the on-site Hiku restaurant, where the rich cultural heritage of Kaikoura is celebrated through a delectable menu inspired by fresh seafood, local produce, and the breathtaking sea and mountain vistas. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Hiku offers an immersive dining experience that embodies the essence of Kaikoura.

    Guests can unwind in the heated outdoor infinity pool or maintain their fitness routine in the well-equipped fitness center. For added convenience, luggage storage is available outside of check-in/check-out hours. Indulge in the convenience of 24-hour room service, courtesy of the talented culinary team at Hiku, ensuring a delightful dining experience at any hour of the day.

    Sudima Kaikoura  (Superior)
• 10
  

  Day 10 - Christchurch

  This morning, board your Whale Watch Kaikoura vessel at "The Whaleway Station”, Railway Station Road, Kaikoura to commence a Whale Watch Kaikoura cruise. Prepare for exciting up-close encounters with Giant Sperm Whales. Clients may also see migratory humpback whales (June-July), Hector's and Dusky Dolphins, Orcas (December-March) and NZ Fur Seals, as well as plenty of bird species including Royal Albatross, Petrels and Shearwaters. The cruise concludes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes after commencement, back at "The Whaleway Station”.

  Continue driving through a diverse landscape, transitioning from the dramatic coastal cliffs and rolling hills of Kaikoura to the expansive plains of Canterbury. As you head south, you'll enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, lush farmland, and the distant Southern Alps, making it a serene and scenic journey to New Zealand's South Island's largest city, Christchurch.

  • 

    Sudima Christchurch City (Deluxe)

    Sudima Christchurch City, a distinguished 5-star boutique hotel, is ideally situated in the vibrant Victoria precinct, surrounded by an array of charming cafés, restaurants, and bars, offering guests a prime location to explore the city's offerings.

    Feel right at home in one of the hotel's 86 air-conditioned rooms, each thoughtfully designed with kitchenettes featuring stovetops and microwaves for added convenience. Stay connected with complimentary wireless internet access and unwind with entertainment on flat-screen televisions. In-room amenities include safes, desks, and phones with free local calls. The luxury king room elevates the experience with wake-up service and a well-equipped kitchenette boasting electric kettles, refrigerators, and kitchenware.

    Indulge in relaxation at the hotel's spa, offering a range of rejuvenating massages, body treatments, and facials. Guests can also enjoy complimentary wireless internet access and personalized concierge services during their stay.

    Start your day right with a complimentary made-to-order breakfast at the hotel's restaurant, Vices & Virtues, where delicious dishes await. Unwind at the modern bar, offering a stylish setting to enjoy refreshing beverages. For additional dining options, guests can explore the nearby diner, serving a variety of American cuisine.

    Sudima Christchurch City offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of Christchurch, providing unparalleled comfort and convenience for discerning travelers.

    Sudima Christchurch City  (Deluxe)
• 11
  

  Day 11 - Tekapo

  Your drive today from Christchurch to Tekapo offers a stunning journey through the vast Canterbury Plains, gradually giving way to the foothills of the Southern Alps. As you approach Lake Tekapo, the landscape transforms into a picturesque scene of turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking introduction to the Mackenzie region.

  Enjoy the afternoon exploring Tekapo at your leisure.  This evening enjoy the wonders of southern night sky and experience the thrill of peering through powerful telescopes. When the stars are hidden from view, you will be taken on a journey to discover the nocturnal world of an astronomer. See research equipment that is out of bounds to the public and experience the wonders of astronomy. With the use of powerful telescopes, you can view distant objects such as planets, star-clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies.

   

  • 

    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo (Superior)

    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo sits in a stunning setting with mountains and the vast expanse of Lake Tekapo stretching out before it. Don't forget to look up! Being one of only ten 'International Dark Sky Reserves' in the world means you're in for some serious stargazing, with pollution-free skies revealing the universe in all its glittering, milky glory. Plus, there's nothing like a soak in the famous hot pools to soothe those sightseeing muscles.

    Taking cues from the jaw-dropping surroundings, the resort's architecture and décor rock a natural vibe that fits right in with the Mackenzie landscape. Inside, the rooms are modern and stylish, decked out with designer furnishings, underfloor heating, and WiFi access. If you want to level up your experience, go for the larger rooms with private balconies – they offer primo views of Lake Tekapo, perfect for some epic stargazing sessions. And if you're after some apartment-style living, check out the villas with fully equipped kitchens and oversized bathtubs for maximum comfort.

    The Pakinui Restaurant & Bar at Peppers is all about showcasing the flavors of the region with true farm-to-table menus featuring locally sourced produce. It's a foodie's dream come true!

    But Peppers isn't just about the views and food. You've got a bunch of outdoor gear at your fingertips, from fishing rods to mountain bikes and even remote-controlled jet boats. And if the weather's not playing ball, no worries – there's a stash of books and board games to keep you entertained. Plus, with ski shops, hot springs, and golf courses nearby, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy.

    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo  (Superior)
• 12
  

  Day 12 - Queenstown

  Make your way to Mt Cook and check in for your Glacier Explorers trip. Depart by bus out to the Tasman Valley, a short drive away from Mount Cook village. Once you arrive at the Blue Lakes car park there’s a 1.5km/25-minute alpine walk through the National Park. Board the Glacier Explorers boat from the Tasman Lake jetty. The whole trip is approximately 2.5 hours, and you can expect to spend approximately one hour on the lake.

  Return to Mt Cook for lunch (own expense) before continuing to Queenstown for a three-night stay.

  • 

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown (Superior)

    Situated perfectly to take in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, Heritage Hotel Queenstown presents a selection of 175 accommodation rooms, including spacious 1- and 2-bedroom suites complete with convenient kitchenettes. The lodge rooms, designed in a European style, offer modern comforts, with many featuring charming balconies. Each room boasts a king-sized bed, specially crafted by a chiropractor and available for purchase, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

    Guests are treated to a range of amenities, including a minibar, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities, and an LCD TV with SKY TV channels. Luxury toiletries, a separate bathtub and shower, a hairdryer, bathrobes, an iron with ironing board, an executive writing desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi access are also provided. Accessible rooms are available for guests with disabilities.

    Mackenzies Restaurant provides an intimate dining experience, with cozy fires in the winter and delightful al fresco dining on the expansive balconies in the summer. The seasonal menu showcases the finest local ingredients for a truly memorable culinary journey.

    Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary facilities, including a spa and cedar sauna, a small heated indoor-outdoor pool, and a well-equipped gym. Additionally, the hotel offers a limited number of bikes for hire, allowing guests to explore the surrounding area at their leisure. Parking is provided free of charge for added convenience.

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
• 13
  

  Day 13 - Queenstown

  This morning, you will transfer to the departure point to experience Milford Sound. After check-in, your pilot will provide a pre-flight briefing on the scenic route, highlighting Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region, and the Donne Glacier. Your 35-minute flight concludes with an overflight of Milford Sound before landing. In Milford Sound, your pilot will escort you to the "Spirit of Milford" for a nature cruise, with a capped number of passengers for an intimate experience. The return flight showcases alpine lakes and waterfalls, including Sutherland Falls, taking another 35 minutes, with the entire trip lasting about five hours, ending back in Queenstown. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

   

  • 

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown (Superior)

    Situated perfectly to take in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, Heritage Hotel Queenstown presents a selection of 175 accommodation rooms, including spacious 1- and 2-bedroom suites complete with convenient kitchenettes. The lodge rooms, designed in a European style, offer modern comforts, with many featuring charming balconies. Each room boasts a king-sized bed, specially crafted by a chiropractor and available for purchase, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

    Guests are treated to a range of amenities, including a minibar, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities, and an LCD TV with SKY TV channels. Luxury toiletries, a separate bathtub and shower, a hairdryer, bathrobes, an iron with ironing board, an executive writing desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi access are also provided. Accessible rooms are available for guests with disabilities.

    Mackenzies Restaurant provides an intimate dining experience, with cozy fires in the winter and delightful al fresco dining on the expansive balconies in the summer. The seasonal menu showcases the finest local ingredients for a truly memorable culinary journey.

    Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary facilities, including a spa and cedar sauna, a small heated indoor-outdoor pool, and a well-equipped gym. Additionally, the hotel offers a limited number of bikes for hire, allowing guests to explore the surrounding area at their leisure. Parking is provided free of charge for added convenience.

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
• 14
  

  Day 14 - Queenstown (D)

  Today is free to relax and explore Queenstown at your leisure.

  This evening, cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once at the lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant savor the delicious aromas as our chef has the best of local produce sizzling away on the grill. Overlooking Lake Whakatipu and Queenstown's alpine scenery, the Colonel’s Homestead at Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect place to spend a few hours. An entertaining farm demonstration is also included, or you can explore the beautiful lakeside gardens. After dinner, cruise back to Queenstown.

  • 

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown (Superior)

    Situated perfectly to take in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, Heritage Hotel Queenstown presents a selection of 175 accommodation rooms, including spacious 1- and 2-bedroom suites complete with convenient kitchenettes. The lodge rooms, designed in a European style, offer modern comforts, with many featuring charming balconies. Each room boasts a king-sized bed, specially crafted by a chiropractor and available for purchase, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

    Guests are treated to a range of amenities, including a minibar, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities, and an LCD TV with SKY TV channels. Luxury toiletries, a separate bathtub and shower, a hairdryer, bathrobes, an iron with ironing board, an executive writing desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi access are also provided. Accessible rooms are available for guests with disabilities.

    Mackenzies Restaurant provides an intimate dining experience, with cozy fires in the winter and delightful al fresco dining on the expansive balconies in the summer. The seasonal menu showcases the finest local ingredients for a truly memorable culinary journey.

    Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary facilities, including a spa and cedar sauna, a small heated indoor-outdoor pool, and a well-equipped gym. Additionally, the hotel offers a limited number of bikes for hire, allowing guests to explore the surrounding area at their leisure. Parking is provided free of charge for added convenience.

    Heritage Hotel Queenstown  (Superior)
• 15
  

  Day 15 - Depart Queenstown

  Enjoy a free morning before returning your rental vehicle to Queenstown Airport prior to your return flights to the US.